Guy releasing a bird

Our Partners: Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

Internships with the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is a nonprofit organization that runs a 24/7 veterinary clinic in the Puntarenas province of Costa Rica. There, they work to rescue and rehabilitate injured wildlife with the ultimate goal of re-releasing them. Established in 2014, they are already making an important difference in wildlife conservation in the area and have rescued over 2000 animals from approximately 210 different species of Costa Rican wildlife.

This area of Costa Rica sees a lot of its wildlife injured or killed due to traffic accidents, electrocutions, domestic animal attacks, the pet trade, and wildlife orphans. Not every animal that enters the sanctuary can be released. At this point, the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary will act as a refuge for these animals. Adjacent to their veterinary work, they run an educational community outreach program to improve human-wildlife coexistence.

Girl feeding a bird

Limited Availability

Wildlife Husbandry Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
  • Animal Care, Camera Traps, Training, Feeding
Gain hands-on experience caring for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife of Costa Rica.
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An intern helping a falcon fly.

Limited Availability

Orphan Care Internship

  • Min. 6 weeks
  • Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
  • Animal Care, Nursery Assistance, Animal Research
Immerse yourself in nurturing and rehabilitating orphaned wildlife, contributing directly to their conservation in the heart of the biodiverse Puntarenas province.
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Vet students examining a feline

Limited Availability

Veterinary Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
  • Veterinary Assistance, Reporting, Animal Care
Work on the frontline of wildlife conservation in a wildlife sanctuary in Costa Rica and assist with animal treatments, record-keeping, and overall care.
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Why Intern with Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

Find out from our previous interns how internships with Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary can jumpstart your professional career and expand your soft skills.

Spending time in Costa Rica was incredible as everyday brought something new to learn. From caring for the animals to helping across the sanctuary, I was able to gain hands-on experience that went beyond practical skills. I came away with valuable experience, unforgettable memories, and a deeper appreciation for the care and commitment involved in this field.

Alexander, Spanish – Bangor University

Wildlife Husbandry Internship, Costa Rica

Getting to work directly with animals in Costa Rica was an incredible experience. I was able to learn about animal behavior and husbandly while also being part of a passionate, supportive team. Contributing to a research project made it an unforgettable experience and confirmed my love for wildlife conservation and care. And the friendships and memories I made will stay with me forever.

Isabella, American – University of Florida

Wildlife Husbandry Internship, Costa Rica

I would definitely recommend this internship for people who have a passion for animal care and rewilding. It was an amazing experience that taught me so much. It was rewarding whilst also providing time to explore Costa Rica as a tourist. The internship has helped to focus my university studies and has confirmed that I want to work in wildlife conservation after graduation.

Amelia, British – University of Liverpool

Orphan Care Internship, Costa Rica